Newsroom

Laptop mit geöffnetem Bildschirm der das Förderportal der VolkswagenStiftung zeigt
News 20 January 2025

Our new funding platform

Our new user-optimised funding platform is now available! You can use it to submit applications and access all important information and documents related to our funding initiatives.

Eine Frau sitzt mit einer blauen Decke vor einer weißen Wand
In Brief 07 January 2025

Microbiologist with a passion for diversity

In her research, she explores the importance of diversity in microbial communities. As a mentor, Sarahi Garcia encourages early career researchers to embrace diversity in the academic world. 

Würfel mit verschiedenen Symbolen, darunter Glühbirne und Figur mit Doktorhut, ein Würfel mit der Aufschrift "Fördermittel"
News 02 January 2025

Another 10,000 euros for reviewers

Second round for a special experiment: Anyone who reviews on behalf of the Volkswagen Foundation until December 31, 2025 will be entered into a draw and may win €10,000 in funding.

Illustration with a man and a woman kissing a girl in their middle who is holding a dollar note
Funding Offer 18 December 2024

Perspectives on Wealth (completed)

The Volkswagen Foundation aims to initiate a shift of perspective from poverty research to facets surrounding the phenomenon of wealth. The call is currently under review.

Illustration einer Gruppe Protestierender
Story 05 December 2024

Radical democracy – How grassroots movements lead to solidarity and problem solution

5 countries, 10 cities, over 100 initiatives – in a large-scale research project, social scientist Helge Schwiertz is investigating how citizens are working together at local levels to find solutions to the major crises facing Europe.

Frau im Portrait, dahinter Illustration mit MIkrofon
Interview 02 December 2024

Researching Research: "There is still considerable potential!"

The "Researching Research" funding initiative strengthens interdisciplinarity and internationalisation in the field – and is also intended to generate policy recommendations for policy-makers. An interview with the programme manager Johanna Brumberg.

Stories

Satellitenansicht der Innertropischen Konvergenzzone
Story 09 June 2026

Climate Research Using Old Ship’s Logs: the Wind Leaves no Trace on the Sea

Did a volcanic eruption in 1783 shift the tropical rain belt? Old ship’s logs could provide the answer – and also shed light on the future climate for millions of people living around the equator.

Mehrere Personen sitzen zusammen, eine Frau erzählt etwas, ein Mann tippt dabei an einem Laptop. Im Hintergrund sind Bananenpflanzen und ein Dschungel-Wald zu sehen.
Story 27 May 2026

A Pharmacy From the Rainforest: Remedies for the Mind

Fabien Schultz is searching for natural materials that can be used to treat mental health conditions. To this end, he is working with indigenous communities in Uganda and Tanzania – and with monkeys.

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